April 13, 2026
Today’s figures reveal a slight decrease in the number of exclusions and suspensions from Autumn 2023 to Autumn 2024, but the numbers remain alarming.
- 3,715 permanent exclusions, up 17 per cent since Autumn 2019.
- 335,671 suspensions, with the rate per 100 pupils increasing from 2.17 in Autumn 2019 to 4.02 in Autumn 2024
Commenting on today’s data, Emily Wells, Senior Researcher at the CSJ said,
“We welcome the modest decline in suspensions and exclusions from Autumn 2023 to Autumn 2024. However, with figures still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels, the Government must go further to address this issue. Persistent disruptive behaviour remains the leading reason cited for exclusions and suspensions and the most disadvantaged are impacted the most. We are calling for an urgent review of behaviour standards, a national Right to Sport for every child, a practical toolkit to support schools in working with parents, and clear national standards for internal alternative provision.”
